2019 Domaine Bernard Gripa Saint Joseph 'Parady'

Region: Rhone Valley, France

Grape: Syrah

Culinary Suggestions: Steak, Lamb Cutlets, Grilled Meats

Vineyard Practice: Sustainable

About

Domaine Bernard Gripa lies in the small village of Mauves on the West bank of the majestic Rhône. To the North is Vienne and Valence is to the South. The village of Mauves faces steep mountain slopes terraced into vineyards.

The Gripa family has a multi-generational history in the village and their family winemaking traditions still remain key to the operations of the Domaine today. Fabrice Gripa, current custodian, looks after the Domaine with the help of his father Bernard Gripa.

Domaine Bernard Gripa has named their top Saint Joseph cuvée “Berceau”. It is a selection of their oldest vines from the appellation. There is only one hectare of vines that produce this label. Exclusively planted on terraces, these challenging vineyards can only be maintained by hand. The granite soils of Saint Joseph provide great freshness to the wines, despite their low acidity. The vineyards in Saint Joseph – like most in the northern Rhône Valley – are planted on terraces. It means there is no use of machines, with all work done by hand. Gripa’s team are vigilant in their care. The old vines of Marsanne do not produce many grapes per vine and therefore have a high concentration and complexity. - Importer Note

Tasting Notes

Opaque ruby. Spice- and mineral-tinged dark berry preserves, potpourri, olive and a suggestion of smoky bacon on the deeply perfumed nose. Juicy, expansive and appealingly sweet, offering lush blueberry, cherry liqueur, licorice and candied violet flavors that are supported by a core of juicy acidity. Slowly building tannins add grip to an impressively long, finely detailed finish that strongly echoes the floral note. 25% whole clusters and 20% new oak.

94 points - Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media December 2022

Drink: 2026 - 2036